The would-be clergyman at the centre of the immigration battle at St. Paul's in Paget started off well at his former church but then left them in the lurch.

The Royal Gazette understands Carl Williams served just six months at Chapel of Ease after joining the St. David's church in December 1999.

Mr. Williams recently applied for the Paget post but the church preferred to appoint a Canadian.

The church was blocked at Immigration when if was found Mr. Williams - a Barbadian married to a Bermudian - had not been interviewed.

The matter has yet to be resolved and the church is now borrowing other local preachers but has been blocked from using expatriate temps.

Chapel of Ease sub warden Harold Millett said: "We were of the opinion he (Carl Williams) was doing some very good work within the community. He was reaching the sick and elderly."

Mr Millett said Mr. Williams was also the right age for the posting and had a well known local wife.

"He was the right solution to most people's desires. But we were surprised when we were told he would be leaving us."

He said Mr. Williams said he needed to go overseas for further spiritual study.

"The notice was very short. He said would be leaving basically to return to the Caribbean.

"We were astonished. We felt he fitted in very good. Overall we were just surprised."

Asked about his opinions on the St. Paul's situation he said: "I find it very difficult we're even at this stage."

He said churches across the Island seemed to require a very different spiritual outlook.

Fellow church member Henry Hayward said: "He came in very enthusiastic with things he planned to do and we were very supportive but it just didn't materialise."

Asked if he was sorry to see Mr. Williams go he said: "I don't think I am prepared to say that."

Yesterday The Royal Gazette tried to contact Carl Williams, via his wife, but she said he would not want to comment.